Manic Street Preachers are set to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their iconic 1994 album, ‘The Holy Bible,’ with a unique screening of their concert film, BePure-BeVigilant-Behave.
The album, which marked the band’s third studio effort, was created during a tumultuous period for guitarist and lyricist Richey Edwards, who was grappling with addiction, depression, and anorexia nervosa.
In 2014, to celebrate the album’s 20th anniversary, the Manics performed the entire record during a ten-date tour, including a notable show at London’s Roundhouse. These performances were captured by BAFTA-winning director Kieron Evans, resulting in the concert film that will now be shown again.
On August 30, the exact date of the album’s original release, the film will be screened at Picturehouse Central cinema in London. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A session with bassist Nicky Wire and director Kieron Evans.
Wire expressed the band’s vision for the film, stating, “We aimed to convey the intense claustrophobia of the record onto film, reflecting the emotional and physical demands of performing those songs. With just one camera on stage, we trusted Kieron to capture that energy.”
Before the film’s initial premiere in 2016, Evans shared insights into its creation. “Wire and I discussed our approach and decided on ‘The Sex Pistols directed by Gaspar Noé,'” he said, referencing the controversial French director known for films like Irreversible and Enter The Void.
Evans continued, “The concept was simple: a low-end, lo-fi camera focusing on one band member each night, capturing different angles and the audience. It wasn’t intended for release, but a friend edited some footage, and we realized we had something special.”
Wire humorously noted, “Wire called me today, saying he still had a headache from watching the film. I wasn’t sure whether to be pleased or concerned.”
In related news, the Manics also re-issued their album ‘Lifeblood’ earlier this year to mark its 20th anniversary.
